New Year Resolutions for the Workplace

The New Year means new beginnings - a great time to set both personal and workplace goals. Here are some ways to help you ring in the New Year with resolutions specific to the workplace.

I resolve to do the best job I can each day. Do you understand what's expected of you at work? Employees who recognize what is expected of them not only perform best but enjoy their jobs more. Schedule a meeting with your boss in the New Year to understand what your boss wants from you, and be on your way to a more satisfying work year.

I resolve to make the best of my commute to work. While you may not have the luxury of reducing your commute to work, there are ways to make it more enjoyable. For instance, if you drive to the office, perhaps it's a good time to catch up on all the reading you've been meaning to do by listening to books on tape. You can turn this "wasted" time into "me time" with simple tactics like these, and begin to make improvements to your work-life.

I resolve to make a commitment to improve my team work. Creating ways to work better with co-workers is a great way to not only increase your chances for advancement but can make your work-day more enjoyable and productive. Improve your work-relationships by fostering team work, encouraging open discussions and other strategies such as these that build team spirit.

I resolve to build up my career network. Building your network with mentors is a great way to connect with people who will share their experience and knowledge, and can assist you in shaping your current role or uncover future opportunities. Mentors can be available to share ideas and guide you through daily workplace issues - and open you up to other opportunities to help build your career.

I resolve to enjoy my current job or find the career I love. Can I find satisfaction in my current career or do I need to change paths altogether? As you enter the New Year, this is good time to assess where you are in your career. Do you need to make the long-term commitment to change careers, or perhaps if you're not ready to make this type of investment, it's a time to learn to love the job you're in. This can be as simple as making some small adjustments, from focusing on the projects you enjoy or asking to branch out into another division of the company.